Remarks by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg at a Public Hearing on Local Laws

“The next bill before me is Introductory Number 1210-A, sponsored by Council Members Gennaro, Quinn, Arroyo, Greenfield, Vacca, Koo, Koppell, Richards, and Dromm. This legislation amends the Smoke Free Air Act to prohibit electronic or e-cigarettes in all areas where combustible cigarettes are currently prohibited.

“The City has made great strides in limiting the use of tobacco in public areas and thereby improving the health of all New Yorkers. The United States Food and Drug Administration has stated they intend to regulate e-cigarettes as tobacco products, and states including New Jersey, North Dakota and Utah have taken steps to prohibit their use in bars and restaurants. Organizations such as the American Lung Association, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society and Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids support this legislation.

“E-cigarettes heat up a chemical solution and emit vapors to provide its user with nicotine, the same highly addictive ingredient found in combustible cigarettes. The next generation of potential smokers could gravitate to getting their nicotine fix from these products.

“This legislation will help protect the gains we have made to reduce combustible cigarette use in New York City and will serve as an example for other municipalities to follow.

“I would like to thank the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley and his staff for their work on this bill, along with my Office of City Legislative Affairs. I would also like to thank the City Council for approving this legislation.”